A Gingerly Blog

This entry was posted on October 6, 2010 by the AFG Staff.

Ginger? A Miracle Medicine!?

That's right boys and girls, ginger is not only good for you, but it is the original medicine, used by everyone from ancient Romans, to the Chinese and Indians thousands of years ago. Even Marco Polo was fond of the stuff. It's recognized by the FDA as being safe, and is always good to have around the house, either for dealing with a stomach ache or just for adding a little flavor to your next meal.

What is ginger?

Ginger is a plant originally found in Southern Asia. It appears as a long tube, with leafy extensions, and a large root. Different people use different parts of the plant for various reasons. The root portion is more commonly used then that of the other sections though.

What's it good for?

Ginger has been used for various purposes over the years. In ancient China ginger was put in tea, and used to treat coughing, illnesses, and body pains. In India it was applied to the sides of one's head to treat headaches. Indonesians used it to cure fatigue.

Today it is commonly used to prevent nausea, dizziness, or sea sickness. Sucking on some ginger, or even some Ginger Candy may help keep you from losing your lunch.
Studies have also shown that ginger may help lower cholesterol and relieve stomach problems such as pain, bloating, or gas.

Ginger also has properties that make it ideal for helping stop diarrhea. It's been suggested that ginger helps treat Ovarian cancer, as well as headaches, body aches, and arthritis pains.

But can you eat it?

Of course! Ginger is a common ingredient in many Asian dishes and teas. The Japanese use it as a sushi accessory to be eaten in between meals to cleanse the mouth of taste.
It commonly comes in the form of Minced Ginger, Pickled Ginger, thinly cut strips for Sushi Ginger, or even Ginger Candy. You can even get it as a Cocktail Mixer to enhance the flavor of your favorite mixed drink, or simply as a Topping for your crackers and sandwiches.

Experiment with ginger on all your foods that you want to add some spice to, and don't forget to have some lying around the house in case of a stomach ache!